Should I Still Seek Addiction Treatment During COVID-19?

Published On: April 14, 2020|Categories: Mental Health Treatment|
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Support and treatment services remain critical during COVID-19. Treatment providers are concerned that COVID-19 could be a catalyst for people with mental health disorders. In addition, those in recovery could be at an increased risk for relapse due to isolation.

Because COVID-19 can impact many aspects of addiction and mental health, professional treatment remains critical during this time. Understandably, some individuals may be concerned about their physical health and safety should they choose to attend rehab. However, this should not be a reason to delay treatment.

Contact Pyramid Healthcare to learn more about what we are doing to keep clients and staff safe.

Why You Should Still Seek Treatment

If you think you might need addiction treatment, it’s important to seek help immediately. COVID-19 does make some aspects of treatment different, but there are a few reasons that it’s important to get treatment now.

  1. Those who have substance use disorders may be at a greater risk of contracting COVID-19.
  2. Isolation may worsen mental health symptoms, leading to drug use.
  3. For those with severe substance use disorders, detoxing at home can be life-threatening.

While much is still unknown about COVID-19, we do know that certain populations are at an increased risk of serious side effects from the virus. Those with respiratory conditions are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Tobacco and opioid use can compromise respiratory health. Methamphetamine use can also damage the pulmonary system. If you are currently struggling with addiction, you could be vulnerable to COVID-19.

Mental health is also a concern for people who have substance use disorders. Underlying mental health symptoms can be a cause for addiction. On the other hand, people with mental health disorders may use drugs or alcohol to cope. Isolation and loneliness can contribute to mental health symptoms, leading someone to use drugs or relapse.

The decision to stop using is an important first step towards recovery. However, sudden withdrawal of drugs or alcohol can be very uncomfortable and even life-threatening. Detoxing on your own can also lead to relapse.

If you have a history of addiction, medical detox is recommended. Medical detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe environment under clinical supervision.

Learn more about our drug and alcohol detox programs.

Is it Safe to Go to Rehab?

Rehab facilities remain open during COVID-19. As you’re evaluating treatment centers, be sure to ask what they are doing in response to COVID-19. An inpatient facility should tell you that they are screening current clients, new clients, and staff regularly for symptoms. If you’re seeking therapeutic services, consider a treatment center that is able to offer telehealth.

Remember, you could put your health and safety at risk even if you choose not to attend rehab right now.

What Pyramid Healthcare is Doing to Keep You Safe

Under the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and state and local officials, Pyramid Healthcare has implemented precautionary measures at all of our locations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about what we are doing to protect our clients and staff. Please note that these policies are subject to change.

Teletherapy services are available at all of our outpatient locations. Clients who need to visit onsite, such as those in medication management, can still do so. In this case, we comply with social distancing guidelines and follow precautionary measures.

Pyramid Healthcare is committed to providing quality, comprehensive care while keeping our clients and staff safe. Our inpatient facilities remain open during this time. If you have a mental health or substance use disorder, we are here to help you.

Have further questions about Pyramid Healthcare’s programming or response to COVID-19? Call our admissions department.

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